His Half Blood Princess 2

Only One Way

• • •

"Professor McGonagall, I'm telling you this right now, I don't know what to do," insisted Scarlet, feeling her stomach lurch as she walked beside Minerva at the courtyard. 

"And you took a break from classes today. I think you're simply just trying to gather this in your head by pretending what happened to Professor Snape is not true, Scarlet." Minerva pushed her glasses up her nose and turned to Scarlet. "I... You know you I can't do anything. Madam Pomfrey told us there's no use into bringing our past, and literally every memory of me just faded from his mind."

"I know. It was as if he was obliviated."

"But he wasn't!" she cried out, pulling on her hair. "That man's spell wasn't obliviate! He was... He was whispering these words. Like an incantation, and I've asked Madam Since, but alas... she has no clue of what on Earth I'm trying to explain."

"Well, you know our librarian," Minerva replied, "she has her ways. But that is not a reason for you to retire from your position as Potions Mistress, Scarlet. I am not allowing it."

Scarlet tilted her head, "Since when was the Headmistress not allow a professor retire when she wishes?"

"Since now."

"Please-"

"Then give me a reason why we need to let you go."

Scarlet fell silent as she thought of what to answer. Perhaps the Headmistress was right, but she didn't want to admit that in front of her. After her conversations with Severus two nights ago, there was no doubt he had a liking towards her. She wasn't immature whenever they debated and she didn't mind his sarcasm, which was terrific enough. Yet as Scarlet watched the clock on the wall, her mind had no choice but to wonder what she should do about this... situation. 

He couldn't remember he ever knew her or he she ever existed, for Merlin's sake, and there was a chance his mind would never be convinced. Scarlet and Severus' remedy from being obliviated with their memories years ago was easy with a Pensieve, and Sirius confirmed he used the correct spell, but with the magic of whoever it was from the forest, Madam Pomfrey suggested avoid using too much methods to regain Severus' memory of Scarlet Carter, for they weren't quite positive of the outcomes.

The Headmistress herself turned to the past Headmasters, especially Dumbledore, for advice about the poor girl's situation. All the past Headmasters and Headmistresses weren't quite fond with Severus Snape, but they were willing to lend knowledge to help Scarlet. Some mentioned that there were also several spells in different languages, but being taught of the spells recommended by the founders of Hogwarts, they had no idea what the anonymous could've done.

"I've come across a few foreigners learning how to combine several spells together to create one outcome. Perhaps the man used several brain-washing spells?"

"I wouldn't know. Besides, Carter has stated the man had a staff."

"There are countless of witches and wizards I have known who have staff's chosen as their source of magic!"

"Yes, but we all know that type of magic is a wee more difficult than a wand's."

"Do you think you have an idea about it, Phineas? After all, you are related to the poor girl. Sirius, himself, is her uncle," said Professor Dumbledore, his eyes twinkling from his painting, and a little smirk upon his own face. "I have no interest upon her, Dumbledore, nor have I any help to offer. But in time, we'll try to find a few more ideas. Other Headmasters have already asked the rest of the paintings of this castle. Unfortunately, Godric, Helga, Rowena, and Salazaar's curtains have closed the paintings and we can't contact them until they open again."

"Alright, I thank you for your time."

• • •

"You know very well it would be awkward, Minerva, for him to find out I've been his girlfriend and colleague for years. Besides that, what do you expect for me to do when he asks why I am in his classroom, being called Professor Carter?" asked Scarlet. She waved her wand to slowly close the door behind her, and sat beside Minerva's desk. Professor Flitwick and Pomfrey shared the room with them as well, all seated on the chairs. 

"We must not bring attention to it. I've heard Rita Skeeter has been hungry for new news, and that woman must not bring out an article about this," inserted Flitwick. Scarlet nodded her head in agreement. "I have to admit, this matters shouldn't be taken seriously by the whole school."

"Especially with Durmstrang, Beauxbatons, and now Ilvermorny visiting Hogwarts for the Quidditch match. They've all gone through drama nearly every time they visit, and we can't lose our reputation."

"That is correct," Minerva spoke, but her attentions focused on cleaning her glasses, "but he also have to contribute a little help. Do you really wish for Severus regain his memories, Scarlet?"

Scarlet felt small at three of them looking at her. Despite her nervousness made her palms sweat slightly, her Fortis Viribi powers couldn't help slowly erupt her hand in purple flames. "Sorry, I-... that shouldn't happen when I'm nervous..." she apologized after nearly catching her own chair on fire. "I- um-"

"Well?"

"... No. I don't think I need to regain his memories... I guess. I love Severus, even if it's strange to say in front of you, I really do care about him. But if it's impossible for him to remember now, then I might as well pray he'll fall in love with me again."

"So you're saying is...?

"Maybe while finding for a cure for Severus, let's just keep this a shush, while I try to make a progress between us."

"Try to turn the man on. He'll be attracted."

"Madam Pomfrey!"

"What? It's true. It takes a load of skill to grab that man's attention, and let's not forget, you already knew each other for years when he began to fancy you."

"During my 5th and 6th year was nothing but awkward and cringey memories of us trying to hide a relationship. It was illegal. We all remember we only dated again to be safe after one year of graduating."

"Then we'll leave it as a secret. It's your decision, Scarlet, you do what you do to him. It's your decision again if you're in love with him again or if you're going to turn away."

"I'll never do that!"

"That's why we all admire your love and loyalty to him, darling."

• • •